Hand Placement
Never pass hands directly over the cutterhead.
At the start of the cut, the left hand holds the workpiece firmly against the infeed table and fence while the right hand pushes the workpiece in a smooth, even motion toward the cutterhead (Figure 34). After the cut is under way, the new surface rests firmly on the outfeed table. The left hand is transferred to the outfeed side and presses down on this part of the workpiece, at the same time maintaining flat contact with the fence. The right hand presses the workpiece forward and before the right hand reaches the cutterhead it should be moved to the work on the outfeed table.
Figure 34
Surfacing
Always use a hold down or push block when surfacing stock.
Surfacing, or jointing the face of stock, is shown in Figure 35. Adjust the infeed table for depth of cut. Cuts of approximately 1/16” at a time are recommended, as this allows better control over the material being surfaced. More passes can then be made to reach the desired depth.
Figure 35
Edge Jointing
Edge Jointing (Figure 36) is the most common operation for the jointer. Set fence square with the table. Depth of cut should be the minimum required to obtain a straight edge. Do not make cuts deeper than 1/8" in a single pass. Hold the best face of the workpiece firmly against the fence throughout the feed.
Figure 36
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